The Manx Electricity Authority has announced that it is to cease retail trading and close its five shops in Douglas, Ramsey, Castletown, Peel, and Port Erin.

MEA Showrooms have been selling electrical appliances on the Island for several decades. However, as has been well publicised, retail across the British Isles has been significantly affected by the economic downturn and this has brought into question the MEA’s proposals to return the business to profitability.

Following a full review of the entire retail operation, and despite the sterling efforts of the staff, the MEA Board has concluded that it is not possible to turn the business around from its current loss-making position. The Council of Ministers has confirmed its agreement with this decision.

MEA Chairman Eddie Lowey MLC said, “This is sadly the end of an era. However, MEA Retail is not alone in struggling on the high-street; many of the larger names in retail are also closing shops due to declining sales. It has been a very difficult decision for the Board, particularly as the retail division employs 24 people, all of whom have given loyal and dedicated service over many years. Although redundancies will be inevitable we are committed to identifying redeployment opportunities both internally and across Government.”

All MEA showrooms will continue trading in the short term, while alternative arrangements are made for customer services facilities. However, it is anticipated that all showrooms will be closed by the end of September, with Castletown and Peel closing at the end of May.